Jeff Plush poses with Colorado Rapids' MLS Cup in 2010 - he will now look to continue his success with USA Curling ©Getty Images

Jeff Plush, former commissioner of the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL), has been named the new chief executive of USA Curling after long-time head Rick Patzke stepped down last year.

Plush, who was the commissioner from 2015 to 2017, has worked in sport and live entertainment for 25 years as a senior executive for many organisations.

During his tenure at the NWSL, Plush added the expansion team Orlando Pride and extended a multi-year, league-wide deal with Nike, bringing in millions of dollars for the league.

"Jeff Plush brings a wealth of experience and talent that will be instrumental in the ongoing growth we see at USA Curling,” said interim chief executive Rich Lepping.

“We are very much looking forward to working with Jeff as he helps move the sport and the business forward, while honoring our traditions, and most importantly, our athletes.”

Before his time at the NWSL, Plush spent more than 10 years with Kroenke Sports & Entertainment - a company owned by billionaire Stan Kroenke which oversees several sports franchises, including English football club Arsenal and National Football League franchise the Los Angeles Rams.

During his tenure there, Plush was the managing director of Major League Soccer (MLS) club the Colorado Rapids, who won the MLS Cup in 2010.

Plush gives President Barack Obama a commemorative shirt following the Colorado Rapids' MLS Cup win ©Getty Images
Plush gives President Barack Obama a commemorative shirt following the Colorado Rapids' MLS Cup win ©Getty Images

He had previously worked with IMG where, he represented athletes including Olympic gold medallist and former 400 metres world record holder Michael Johnson.

“The United States Curling Association (USCA) board of directors is thrilled to have Jeff onboard as we embrace the opportunities that are before us both at the grassroots and high-performance levels,” said Courtney Schmidt, USCA board chairman.  

“I am looking forward to introducing Jeff to the world of curling at our national championships in Spokane.”

Plush will attend the ongoing USA Curling National Championships in Washington state.

“I am thrilled and humbled by the opportunity to lead USA Curling as we chart a course for dynamic change,” Plush said. 

"The chance to work closely with Courtney, the board and our tremendous athletes is one that I simply could not pass up. 

"The privilege of returning to the Olympic movement is something that I am particularly excited about." 

The United States' men's team are the reigning Olympic champions, having shocked the curling world at Pyeongchang 2018.